Theory of a Deadman went to watch Grave Digger practice and came home with a song. Honestly, there are worse ways to conduct a writing session.
The Canadian rock veterans have released their new EP, Part 1: Funeral Songs, through ONErpm, accompanied by the new single and video “Monster Truck.” The release features the band’s familiar combination of big riffs, melodic hooks and the sort of lyrical attitude that has kept Theory of a Deadman comfortably occupying its own corner of modern rock for more than two decades.
According to frontman Tyler Connolly, “Monster Truck” started after the band watched the legendary Grave Digger monster truck in action. Between the size, noise and general lack of subtlety, Connolly came away with a fairly straightforward assessment: “this is the sound of America.”
Hard to argue with the research methodology.
Part 1: Funeral Songs also represents a change in how Theory of a Deadman plans to release new material. Rather than disappearing for several years between traditional albums, Connolly says the band is adopting a “more music more often” approach. A second EP is planned for March, with both projects eventually forming part of a larger full-length album featuring additional new material in 2027.
It’s a different release strategy for a band with plenty of history behind it. Theory of a Deadman has accumulated a catalog that includes “Santa Monica,” “Hate My Life,” “Not Meant To Be,” “Bad Girlfriend” and “Rx (Medicate),” along with 12 Top 10 entries on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock chart.
The current lineup of Connolly, Dave Brenner, Dean Back and Joe Dandeneau is also on the road with Sevendust as part of The Dead / Seven Tour, with additional Theory of a Deadman headlining dates expected to be announced soon.
After more than two decades, plenty of bands start talking about maturity and refinement. Theory of a Deadman apparently went to a monster truck practice instead.
That works too.
Part 1: Funeral Songs is available now via ONErpm.
Information provided by Theory of a Deadman’s publicity team.